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The Life and Legacy of Muhammad Garba: A Story of Commitment, Leadership, and Excellence

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Malam Muhammad Garba

The Life and Legacy of Muhammad Garba: A Story of Commitment, Leadership, and Excellence

By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano

Muhammad Garba’s rise from a young man in Kano to a reputable figure in public service, media, and union leadership is evidence of his commitment, foresight, and ceaseless work to improve Nigeria. A number of noteworthy accomplishments throughout his more than three-decade career demonstrate his development, tenacity, and unshakable dedication to the media industry, public service, and the people he represented.

*Early Beginnings in Journalism*

Born and raised in Kano State, Muhammad Garba was exposed to the rich cultural diversity and vibrant political atmosphere of northern Nigeria. His early years in Kano shaped his outlook and provided the foundation for his future endeavors.

Garba started working as a journalist in 1989 for Triumph Publishing Company Limited, one of the Kano’s most well-known media outlets. As a journalist, Garba soon came to see how the media could affect national debate and public sentiment. His ascent in the media sector was driven by his love of impactful, accurate reporting as well as his natural grasp of the function of journalism in society.

Notable were Garba’s strong work ethic, ability to meet deadlines, and astute editorial judgment. From reporter to sub-editor, chief sub-editor, group news editor, and finally deputy editor, he rose through the ranks quickly.

He developed his leadership skills in each of these positions while gaining the knowledge and expertise necessary to handle the intricacies of newsrooms. Garba played a crucial role in determining Triumph Publishing’s editorial direction as he rose through the ranks, helping to preserve the publication’s standing as a high-caliber news outlet.

*Union Leadership: A Champion for Journalists*

In addition to his achievements as an editor, Garba’s strong participation in unionism showed his leadership potential. He thought it was important to safeguard the rights and well-being of journalists, particularly in a setting where press freedom was frequently threatened. After being elected as Chapel-The Triumph’s chairman, Garba started his union involvement by assiduously defending the rights of the organization’s journalists.

Soon after, Garba’s leadership abilities and influence helped him rise to a higher position as president of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ). His career took a significant turn at this point. In this esteemed position, Garba promoted press freedom, improved working conditions, and moral principles for journalists throughout Nigeria.

Significant progress was made in press organization during his time as NUJ president, guaranteeing that journalists’ rights were upheld and their voices heard. Under his direction, the union consolidated its standing as a powerful force in Nigerian media, capable of interacting with employers, government officials, and civil society organizations to defend journalists’ rights.

*Transition to Public Service*

Given his extensive background in media, leadership, and public affairs, Garba’s move from journalism to public service was a logical one. He was in high demand for government jobs due to his reputation as an excellent communicator and his in-depth knowledge of the political environment.

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He first served as the press secretary to both the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Deputy Governor of Kano State. In these roles, Garba was responsible for managing the flow of information between political offices and the public. His work as press secretary required him to be tactful, efficient, and strategic, ensuring that the political leaders he represented had a strong, clear message that resonated with the public and stakeholders.

Garba was appointed as the Commissioner for Information in the Kano State Government under former Governor Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje OFR because of his expertise in media management and public relations.

As Commissioner for Information, Garba was tasked with managing government communications, including handling media relations, overseeing the dissemination of government policies, and ensuring transparency in governance. His ability to navigate the complexities of state media and his flair for crafting compelling narratives helped elevate the public image of the Kano State Government.

*Chief of Staff to the National Chairman of the All-Progressive Congress (APC)*

Garba’s career achieved a new height when he was named Chief of Staff to Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje OFR, the National Chairman of the All-Progressives Congress (APC). In this capacity, Garba rose to prominence inside the ruling political party’s organizational apparatus. Managing the party’s operations, supervising communication tactics within the APC, and organizing important assignments for the National Chairman were among his responsibilities.

Garba was recognized for his extraordinary organizational and strategic skills when he was appointed Chief of Staff. He was given important assignments requiring a thorough comprehension of Nigerian politics, the objectives of the APC, and the effective execution of those goals.His behind-the-scenes efforts, which made sure the APC’s message reached its supporters efficiently, were crucial to the party’s operations and electoral campaigns.

Being Dr. Ganduje’s close advisor, Garba was essential in shaping the party’s policies and tactics, especially those concerning election and governance. In both local and national politics, the APC’s success was greatly aided by his capacity to organize extensive political operations.

*A Legacy of Service and Leadership*

Throughout his career, Muhammad Garba has exemplified the qualities of a servant leader: dedication, humility, and a tireless commitment to the people he served. Whether as a journalist, a union leader, or a public servant, Garba’s primary focus has always been on serving the public good. His influence in Nigerian journalism, unionism, and politics has left a lasting impact, one that will be felt for generations to come.

Garba has made a significant impact on the media landscape. More press freedom and a more professional media environment have been made possible by his efforts to improve the working circumstances of media practitioners and to fortify the Nigerian journalistic union. He demonstrated his capacity to serve the public with honesty and openness during his tenure as a public servant, making sure that the programs and policies actually benefited the populace.

As a political leader, Garba’s work with the APC influenced the party’s communication approach, which helped it remain effective and relevant in Nigeria’s rapidly changing political environment. His attempts to make sure the party ran smoothly contributed to its standing as one of Nigeria’s most powerful political organizations.

Muhammad Garba’s rise from the press to the top levels of public service is a compelling illustration of what is possible with diligence, tenacity, and a strong sense of purpose. He will always be regarded as a person whose contributions influenced the political, media, and public service environments of Nigeria. His career is a testament to the virtues of integrity, leadership, and determination.

In conclusion, everyone who wants to change their community can find inspiration in Muhammad Garba’s incredible journey. His accomplishments serve as evidence of the strength of dedication, development, and societal contribution. Future generations of Nigerian and international journalists, leaders, and public servants will surely continue to draw inspiration from Garba’s legacy.

Written by a digital journalist Umar Idris Shuaibu, from Kano.

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Petrol Price Surge to Deepen Cost-of-Living Crisis as Dangote Refinery Hikes Rates Again

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1 hour ago

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March 9, 2026

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By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The financial burden on Nigerian consumers is set to intensify following a sharp increase in petrol prices by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, marking the third adjustment in less than a week.

Effective Monday, the refinery raised the gantry price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, to ₦1,175 per litre. This represents a significant jump of ₦180, or approximately 18.1%, from the ₦995 per litre price announced just last Friday. In a parallel move, the gantry price of Automotive Gas Oil (diesel) was also revised upward to ₦1,620 per litre.

Confirming the development to our correspondent, a senior official at the refinery, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to restrictions on public commentary, stated that the changes have been formally communicated to marketers and depot operators.

“Yes, the gantry prices have been adjusted. PMS is now ₦1,175 per litre while Automotive Gas Oil is ₦1,620 per litre,” the official said. “The market has been extremely volatile, and replacement costs have shifted significantly in recent days. These adjustments reflect prevailing market fundamentals and the cost environment we are currently operating in.”

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Data from the industry pricing platform, petroleumprice.ng, confirmed that the revised rates have been integrated into depot pricing systems nationwide, effectively resetting the benchmark for downstream marketers.

This latest surge—which has seen gantry prices climb from ₦774 to over ₦1,175 in a matter of days—is already translating to higher costs at the pump. Retail outlets in several states are now selling petrol for approximately ₦1,200 per litre, adding another layer of economic strain on households and businesses.

The increase is expected to trigger a fresh wave of price adjustments across the country. Higher fuel costs invariably lead to increased expenses for transportation, logistics, and production, costs that are typically passed on to consumers. This dynamic threatens to exacerbate Nigeria’s already high cost of living.

The price hikes underscore the challenges facing the Federal Government’s efforts to stabilize the downstream sector. Through the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, the government has been working to secure crude oil supply for the Dangote refinery via third-party international traders in a bid to sustain local refining and, ultimately, moderate prices.

However, officials caution that these interventions may not yield immediate relief for consumers. As the 650,000-barrel-per-day Lekki-based refinery adjusts its prices in response to volatile market realities, Nigerians are left grappling with the immediate consequences of a deregulated market where pump prices are increasingly subject to global and local market forces.

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ADVERT:KANO STATE PRIMARY HEALTH CARE MANAGEMENT BOARD IMMUNIZATION PLUS AND MALARIA PROGRESS BY ACCELERATING COVERAGE AND TRANSFORMING SERVICES (IMPACT PROJECT)

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1 hour ago

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March 9, 2026

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KANO STATE PRIMARY HEALTH CARE MANAGEMENT BOARD
IMMUNIZATION PLUS AND MALARIA PROGRESS BY ACCELERATING COVERAGE AND TRANSFORMING SERVICES (IMPACT PROJECT)

CREDIT NO. IDA-65390

Request for Bids – Goods

Procurement of 44 Nos. Ultrasound Scan Machines for 44 Secondary Facilities in Kano State.

NG-KANO MPA-536529-GO-RFB

Date of Issue: March 9, 2026

1. The Kano State Government through the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has received a credit from the International Development Association toward the cost of the Immunization Plus and Malaria Progress by Accelerating Coverage and Transforming Services (IMPACT), Project and intends to apply part of the proceeds of this credit to payments under the Contract for the Procurement of 44 Nos. Ultrasound Scan Machines for 44 Secondary Facilities in Kano State.

2. The Kano State Immunization Plus and Malaria Progress by Accelerating Coverage and Transforming Services (IMPACT), Project now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders for the Procurement of the following:

Item No.
Description / Identification of Items
Qty
Bid Security
Delivery Period
Location(s)

 

Procurement of 44 Nos. Ultrasound Scan Machines for 44 Secondary Facilities in Kano State.

NG-KANO MPA-536529-GO-RFB
44
₦19,700,000.00
90 days
Immunization Plus and Malaria Progress by Accelerating Coverage and Transforming Services (IMPACT), Project, State PIU Office, Na’ibawa Zaria Road, Opposite Gidan Fiat, Kano State

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Bidding Procedures
3. Bidding will be conducted through National Competitive Bidding using Request for Bids (RfB) as specified in the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers” Procurement in Investment Projects Financing” November 2020 (“Procurement Regulations”) available on www.worldbank.org/procure and is open to all Bidders as defined in the Procurement Regulations. In addition, please refers to paragraphs 3.14 to 3.17 in the “Procurement Regulation” on the conflict of interest.

Invitation
4. Interested and eligible bidders may obtain further information from the State Project Manager, Kano State IMPACT Project, and inspect/obtain the bidding documents at the address below, between 9.00 am to 4.00 pm Mondays to Fridays, except on public holidays.

5. Qualifications requirements include:

The Bidder should demonstrate that it has successfully completed the supply/installation of a minimum of 30 (Thirty) Ultrasound Scan Machine within the last 5 (five) years.”
Audited financial statements for the last three (3) years, to demonstrate the financial capability of the Bidder in terms of Profitability and adequate working capital,
Registration with Professional organizations/Licenses to sell Medical Equipment in Nigeria.
Company Registration,
Certified Manufacturers Authorization,
Evidence of after-sales services in Nigeria

A margin of preference for eligible national contractors shall not apply; Additional details are provided in the Bidding Documents.

6. A complete set of Bidding Documents in English may be purchased by interested bidders on the submission of a written Application to the address below and upon payment of a non-refundable fee of ₦ 100,000.00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira only). The payment method will be a Bank Draft in favour of the Kano State IMPACT Project. The Bidding Documents will be collected by the representative of the Bidder or by courier services on request, which shall be at the bidder’s cost.

7. Bids must be delivered to the address below at 11:00 am local time on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. Electronic bid submissions will not be accepted; Late bids will be rejected. Bids will be opened in the presence of the bidders’ representatives, who choose to attend in person at the address below 11:00 am local time on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. All bids must be accompanied by a Bid Security of ₦19,700,000.00 in local currency or an equivalent amount in a freely convertible currency.

8. The address referred to above is:

The State Project Manager,
State Project Implementation Unit (SPIU),
Kano State Immunization Plus and Malaria Progress by Accelerating Coverage and Transforming Services (IMPACT), Project,
Address: Na’ibawa Zaria Road, Opposite Gidan Fiat, P.M.B 3295, Kano State.
Telephone: +234 803 530 7255 / +234 806 558 1226
Email address: piukanoimpactproject@gmail.com

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Legal Setback for Turaki Faction as Appeal Court Affirms High Court’s Ruling on Ibadan Convention

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2 hours ago

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March 9, 2026

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By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Court of Appeal in Abuja has dismissed an appeal filed by a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Kabiru Turaki, SAN, thereby upholding the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court to intervene in matters concerning the party’s planned national convention.

Delivering judgment in a set of nine consolidated appeals, a three-man panel of the appellate court unanimously affirmed the earlier decision of the lower court. The Federal High Court had previously barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising or validating any convention organised by the Turaki-led faction.

The legal battle stemmed from a dispute over the party’s scheduled national convention, initially planned for November 14 and 15, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State. The Turaki faction had challenged a lower court order that restrained the party from proceeding with the event.

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In its ruling on Thursday, the Appeal Court rejected the appellants’ contention that the matter constituted an internal affair of the party and was therefore outside the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court. The panel held that the Federal High Court was fully competent to hear the suit.

Delivering the lead judgment, the court stated that the appellants could not “repackage a clear violation of the party constitution and that of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as an internal party affair.” It emphasised that the issues raised extended beyond internal party politics and touched on statutory and constitutional violations.

Consequently, the court dismissed the appeals for lacking in merit and awarded a cost of N2 million against the appellants, to be paid to the respondents.

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